DK Travel : Andalucía and Costa del Sol

The diverse and politically semi-autonomous region of Andalucía has a population of some 7 million and embodies what is thought of as typically Spanish – an accurate portrait of the place and its people must include the bullfight, flamenco, gypsies, remote white villages, high sierras and mass tourism on endless stretches of beach. The memories you take with you after a visit here will be colourful, joyous, intense and deeply stirring.

Alpujarras Crafts

The hill towns of this zone are rich in traditional crafts, including ceramics and weaving. Local jarapas (rugs) are particularly prized. Bags, ponchos and blankets, too, are hand-loomed in age-old patterns. They’re all offered at weekly markets throughout the area.
Alquería de Morayma, East Alpujarras

A lovely retreat, nestled in farmland, with vines, almonds and olives. Two restaurants.
Amanhavis Hotel, Benahavis

In the hills just outside Marbella, this place is like an Andalucían theme park, albeit very tasteful. Gardens and pools set off the nine rooms with names like “The Christopher Columbus Berth” and “The Spice Trader’s Caravan” – all decorated accordingly.
Amazing Beaches

There are amazing beaches all along the Costa de la Luz.
Amontillado

Midway between a fino and an oloroso . The layer of flor yeast is allowed to die off, so it gets darker in colour.
Anchoas (Boquerones)

Anchovies and sardines are often served lightly fried in batter, but can just as likely be offered marinated and preserved in oil, or with a tomato sauce. You generally eat them minus the head but with all the bones.
Andrés de Vandelvira

Andrés de Vandelvira (1509– 75) was the quintessential architect of the Spanish Renaissance in Andalucía. His work spanned the three major phases of the style’s predominance, from ornamental Plateresque, to Italianate Classical, to austere Herreran. He can be given virtually sole credit for the architectural treasures in the town of Úbeda and many important edifices in Baeza (see Baeza and Úbeda).
Angeles Méndez

This is a good spot to load up on all the flouncy dresses, mantillas, shawls and so forth that you will need to participate in the various festivals that abound in the region (see Religious Festivals).
Angus Resaurante

Friendly restaurant overlooking the Marina in Benalmadena. Serves Argentine Aberdeen Angus beef which rates amongst some of the best I've ever tasted.
Anise Liqueur

The liqueur of choice around this zone is anise-based. One of the best is Anis Cazalla from the eponymous town (see Cazalla de la Sierra).

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €50
- €50–€100
- €100–€150
- €150–€200
- over €200